plate no. 7267

Floral still life with mirror

Max Beckmann, 1927

oilExpressionismstill lifeflowersstill lifevasesmirrorwindowtable

some experience helpful

Recreating this painting will help students practice simplifying complex forms and using color to create depth and form. It will also help with understanding reflected light and creating a sense of atmosphere.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 12 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the basic shapes and composition, paying attention to the placement of the vases and the mirror.
step 02
Block in the large areas of color, starting with the background and then the table and vases.
step 03
Add the darker values to define the shapes and create contrast.
step 04
Begin adding details to the flowers, focusing on capturing their general shapes and colors.
step 05
Work on the reflections in the mirror, simplifying the forms and colors.
step 06
Refine the details and add highlights to create a sense of light and form.
step 07
Add final touches and adjust colors as needed.
step 08
Step back and review the painting, making any necessary corrections.

color palette

primary · yellow ochre · burnt umber · titanium white

secondary · cadmium red · ultramarine blue · sap green

Mix various shades of yellow ochre with white and burnt umber to create the different tones in the vases and background. Use ultramarine blue and burnt umber to create the darker tones in the vases and mirror.

techniques